Common Boxwood Pyramid 'Pyramid Topiary'
Sellum (Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum) is a magnificent tropical foliage plant known for its dramatic, deeply lobed leaves that create a lush, jungle-like feel in any indoor or outdoor space.
1. Basic Identification
Common Name: Philodendron Sellum, Tree Philodendron
Botanical Name: Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
Arabic Name: فيلوديندرون سيلوم
Family: Araceae
Location: Indoor
2. Taxonomy & Classification
Philodendron Sellum belongs to the Kingdom Plantae, Order Alismatales, and the Family Araceae. Formerly classified under the Philodendron genus as Philodendron bipinnatifidum, it has recently been reclassified into the genus Thaumatophyllum due to its arborescent (tree-like) growth habit.
3. Origin & Distribution
This plant is native to the tropical regions of South America, including Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay. It thrives in humid, subtropical climates and has been naturalized in various warm regions worldwide.
4. Visual Characteristics
The Sellum features large, glossy, dark green leaves that are deeply incised or "pinnatifid." As the plant matures, it develops a thick, woody trunk characterized by circular scars, often called "eye" scars, which are left behind by old leaf bases.
5. Size & Dimensions
Indoors, the Sellum can reach a height of 5 to 8 feet and a spread of nearly the same width. In its natural outdoor habitat, it can grow even larger, sometimes reaching up to 10-15 feet in height.
6. Light Requirements
It prefers bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate medium light levels, its growth will be slower. Exposure to direct afternoon sun can scorch the leaves, while too little light may cause the stems to become leggy.
7. Watering Needs
Sellum likes consistent moisture but is sensitive to overwatering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency as the plant's growth slows.
8. Soil & Potting
A well-draining, rich potting mix is essential. A combination of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark provides the necessary aeration and moisture retention. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Thrives in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C–27°C). As a tropical plant, it enjoys high humidity levels; misting the leaves or using a humidifier can help maintain its vibrant appearance in dry indoor environments.
10. Fertilization
Feed with a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer once a month during the spring and summer growing seasons. Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid root burn.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
The care level is considered easy to moderate. Maintenance involves wiping the large leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and pruning away any yellowing or damaged lower leaves to encourage new growth.
12. Growth & Propagation
It is a relatively fast grower under ideal conditions. Propagation is typically achieved through stem cuttings or by planting seeds, although the former is more common for indoor gardeners.
13. Common Problems
Common issues include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Overwatering can lead to root rot, characterized by yellowing leaves and a wilting appearance despite wet soil.
14. Benefits & Uses
Apart from its high ornamental value, the Sellum is an excellent air-purifying plant, capable of filtering common household toxins such as formaldehyde from the air. It is ideal for large living rooms, offices, and lobbies.
15. Toxicity & Safety
The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to humans and pets (cats and dogs) if ingested. Contact with the sap can also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
Common Boxwood Pyramid 'Pyramid Topiary'
Sellum (Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum) is a magnificent tropical foliage plant known for its dramatic, deeply lobed leaves that create a lush, jungle-like feel in any indoor or outdoor space.
1. Basic Identification
Common Name: Philodendron Sellum, Tree Philodendron
Botanical Name: Thaumatophyllum bipinnatifidum
Arabic Name: فيلوديندرون سيلوم
Family: Araceae
Location: Indoor
2. Taxonomy & Classification
Philodendron Sellum belongs to the Kingdom Plantae, Order Alismatales, and the Family Araceae. Formerly classified under the Philodendron genus as Philodendron bipinnatifidum, it has recently been reclassified into the genus Thaumatophyllum due to its arborescent (tree-like) growth habit.
3. Origin & Distribution
This plant is native to the tropical regions of South America, including Brazil, Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay. It thrives in humid, subtropical climates and has been naturalized in various warm regions worldwide.
4. Visual Characteristics
The Sellum features large, glossy, dark green leaves that are deeply incised or "pinnatifid." As the plant matures, it develops a thick, woody trunk characterized by circular scars, often called "eye" scars, which are left behind by old leaf bases.
5. Size & Dimensions
Indoors, the Sellum can reach a height of 5 to 8 feet and a spread of nearly the same width. In its natural outdoor habitat, it can grow even larger, sometimes reaching up to 10-15 feet in height.
6. Light Requirements
It prefers bright, indirect light. While it can tolerate medium light levels, its growth will be slower. Exposure to direct afternoon sun can scorch the leaves, while too little light may cause the stems to become leggy.
7. Watering Needs
Sellum likes consistent moisture but is sensitive to overwatering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. During the winter months, reduce watering frequency as the plant's growth slows.
8. Soil & Potting
A well-draining, rich potting mix is essential. A combination of peat moss, perlite, and orchid bark provides the necessary aeration and moisture retention. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH.
9. Temperature & Humidity
Thrives in temperatures between 65°F and 80°F (18°C–27°C). As a tropical plant, it enjoys high humidity levels; misting the leaves or using a humidifier can help maintain its vibrant appearance in dry indoor environments.
10. Fertilization
Feed with a balanced, water-soluble liquid fertilizer once a month during the spring and summer growing seasons. Dilute the fertilizer to half-strength to avoid root burn.
11. Maintenance & Care Level
The care level is considered easy to moderate. Maintenance involves wiping the large leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust and pruning away any yellowing or damaged lower leaves to encourage new growth.
12. Growth & Propagation
It is a relatively fast grower under ideal conditions. Propagation is typically achieved through stem cuttings or by planting seeds, although the former is more common for indoor gardeners.
13. Common Problems
Common issues include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Overwatering can lead to root rot, characterized by yellowing leaves and a wilting appearance despite wet soil.
14. Benefits & Uses
Apart from its high ornamental value, the Sellum is an excellent air-purifying plant, capable of filtering common household toxins such as formaldehyde from the air. It is ideal for large living rooms, offices, and lobbies.
15. Toxicity & Safety
The plant contains insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which are toxic to humans and pets (cats and dogs) if ingested. Contact with the sap can also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.